An inter-departmental committee has agreed to grant conditional approval to the Hong Kong People's Alliance on the World Trade Organization to hold public activities at the Victoria Park during the 6th Ministerial Conference, MC6 Co-ordination Office Head Janet Wong says.

Two football pitches, the bandstand and half of the central lawn of the park have been designated for the purpose, she said.

Ms Wong said the inter-departmental committee comprising her office, the Police, the Transport Department and Leisure & Cultural Services Department has been set up to co-ordinate applications from non-governmental organisations to hold public activities during the period.

She explained it would be fair and reasonable to reserve half of the central lawn at this stage as other NGOs might also wish to hold public activities in the park. Should there be no other application received in future, the alliance will also be granted the other half.

Ms Wong and officials from the Police and the Leisure & Cultural Services Department this morning held a meeting with representatives of the alliance to discuss arrangements for public activities and demonstrations.

No demonstration at Southorn

At the meeting, she also explained the inconveniences that would be caused if camping were allowed in Victoria Park. She was glad to learn the alliance has dropped the idea.

Ms Wong said the Government would stay in close contact with the alliance to help them work out detailed arrangements such as insurance and electricity supply.

As regards Southorn Playground, Ms Wong said having taken into account the Wanchai District Council's views, the Government has decided it would not be used for demonstration purposes.

However, the playground could be used as a venue for other MC6-related public activities such as public forums and cultural performances, she added.

On demonstration area arrangements, Ms Wong said taking into consideration the alliance's aspiration of having the demonstration zones as near to the venue as possible, the Government has actively explored the idea of designating Wanchai Sports Ground and Wanchai Public Cargo Working Area for the purpose.

Ms Wong said Wanchai Sports Ground is a reasonably good location given its proximity to the venue. It is spacious and has good facilities such as toilets.

But she said the running track there has just been resurfaced and protection is needed.

As regards the Wanchai Cargo Working Area, Ms Wong pointed out that while it is close to the venue, it is also on the waterfront. Suitable security measures would have to be worked out.

She said site visits with the alliance will be arranged shortly, and the Wanchai District Council will also be briefed and consulted.